Interesting example Sea
With Jeff Bratt Picking him in the program he'll be overbet, but this field is weak.
Passport To Art is the one to beat and OHB will have to respond to Sylvain like he did with McNair.
As for the poll:
Interesting results so far, more diverse opinions than I thought there'd be.
The two scenarios emerging are most energy output comes from:
An extended 1/2 mile brush after a slow 1/2 mile pace.
2 brushes, start and finish with just motoring the middle half.
willphorse is right about the effect of track size and wides, but I over simplified these choices.
Racing with cover or going the long mile effects energy output when evaluating the current form or shape. Track surface and wind conditions also come into play.
BTW
I'd like the program to include wind speed and direction but that ain't gonna happen.
When I was a regular track goer at The Meadows I'd always check the flag when I got there
and adjust picks for best front end or closer on windy days. Here again, wind direction on 2 turn, 3 turn, or 4 turn track makes a difference.